Framing A Deck Around A Bay
Many houses are built with a door access projecting from a cantilevered bay. In most cases, particularly in older construction, these bays are not built from continuous floor trusses running through the house. They are instead simply applied or tacked on to the side of the house. This means you cannot directly hang off this section of house. If you are working around a canted bay, verify your house's construction by checking your house plans or the house frame itself if you have an unfinished basement. You can always cut beam pockets into the house to provide bearing support or install posts and footings beside the house. But, why the hassle? The best and least invasive technique is to frame an H around the cantilevered bay.
This is done by installing two beams running perpendicular to the house from either side of the bay and running a beam between them directly in front of the bay. In essence, you are transferring the load off of the cantilevered bay through the beam set in front to the two perpendicular-oriented beams and finally to a solid part of the house. Use the proper joist hangers and fasteners to secure the framing. Because of the long spans across the bay, you may need to use a 3-2x10 beam.
Attaching the Ledger Board to the House Rim
Learn how to properly install a waterproof ledger board using flashing and fasteners. Check out our step-by-step video and detail drawings.
Lateral Load Device
Learn about your options for providing lateral load support for your deck. We explain recent code changes affecting deck building.
Vents, Pipes and Spigots
How do you install a deck ledger board around vents, pipes and spigots? We offer two solutions that can solve your problem.
How to Ink Stamps from Pressure Treated Lumber
Ink stamps seen on pressure treated wood represents where the lumber came from and its grade. Learn a few tricks to remove this ink from your wood at Decks.com.
How to Remove Moss & Algae from Your Deck
Moss and algae growth can be detrimental to the integrity of your deck if left untreated.
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Attaching the ledger board to hollow block
Our inspector discusses how to attach a deck to a hollow concrete block foundation wall.
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Step-by-step instructions on how to install a ledger board to a concrete house foundation wall using expansion anchors.
Ledger Board Fasteners
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Deck Maintenance Checklist
Wondering how to best care for your deck? Download our comprehensive deck maintenance checklist to ensure your deck is safe and lasts for years at Decks.com.
How to Restore & Refinish a Deck
Decks need maintenance. A twice-yearly cleaning is needed at a minimum. But wood decks—even with good upkeep—can still warp, rot, or get termites. Plus, no stain or paint job lasts forever. Fortunately, you can reset the clock by restoring your deck and refinishing it.
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights